Classic meets modern: How vending is evolving in the age of AI

Steven King on leading ARKI and the future of automation

In this episode of The Automation and Self-Service Podcast, editor Sandra Carpenter sits down with Steven King, CEO of BlueSky Robotics and Distinguished Professor of Innovation and Emerging Technology at UNC. King is co-hosting and keynoting this year's Automated Retail and Kiosk Innovation [https://automatedretailandkiosks.com/] (ARKI) show in Tampa, where he'll help lead conversations on how automation, AI and robotics are reshaping self-service industries. King shares his perspective on the event's evolution from the Self-Service Innovation Summit to ARKI, explaining how the rebrand reflects the growing connections between retail, vending, and technology. He also discusses the importance of applied AI, automation in customer experience and the balance between efficiency and human connection. Listeners will hear insights from King on what to expect in Tampa this December, including the themes shaping this year's agenda and why collaboration remains central to the future of automation. Listeners of the Automation and Self-Service podcast also receives $100 off of the registration cost using code "PODCAST".

Classic meets modern: How vending is evolving in the age of AI

Vending has long been a symbol of convenience, from the nostalgic glow of the classic Coke machine to today's sleek, touchscreen models that accept mobile payments and even make product recommendations. In this episode of The Automation and Self-Service Podcast, host Sandra Carpenter, editor of Vending Times and Kiosk Marketplace, sits down with Dale Laszig, a longtime payments industry journalist and content creator who has tracked vending's digital transformation for years. Together, they explore how operators are blending tradition and technology to meet modern expectations. Laszig discusses the delicate balance between innovation and accessibility, highlighting how operators can modernize without losing the simple, familiar charm that made vending iconic. From AI-powered personalization and smarter inventory management to the rise of unattended retail in coworking spaces and residential buildings, she shares insights on where the biggest opportunities and challenges lie. As the industry shifts from analog to intelligent, always-connected devices, Carpenter and Laszig look ahead to what's next for automation, from expanding product categories to sustainability and machine design. Whether you're a vending operator, technology provider or simply fascinated by how automation is reshaping everyday experiences, this conversation offers a grounded look at the vending industry's next chapter.

Keeping kiosks always on: a conversation with Smart Charging Technologies

In the newest episode of the Automation and Self Service Podcast, Sandra Carpenter, editor of Kiosk Marketplace, talks with Micah Larsen, MBA, sales director at Smart Charging Technologies, about one of the most expensive challenges kiosk and vending operators face: downtime.

The future of campus dining? PizzaForno thinks it’s a 24/7 pizza vending machine

On this episode of the Automation and Self Service Podcast, we're diving into one of the hottest trends in food tech: 24/7 pizza vending. My guest is Travis Musser, PizzaForno's West Coast lead, who is spearheading the brand's expansion into Southern California. PizzaForno is North America's first automated pizzeria, serving fresh, high-quality pizzas in just minutes — anytime, day or night. Now the company is making waves on college campuses across Los Angeles, bringing students a late-night dining option that's convenient, affordable and surprisingly fresh. Musser shares insight about what makes this concept so appealing to students, the reactions he's seeing on campus and why he believes PizzaForno is perfectly positioned to meet the demand for quick, reliable meals in a 24/7 world. He also discusses PizzaForno's unique student ambassador program and where the company hopes to go next on the West Coast. Subscribe to Networld Media Group's YouTube channel [https://www.youtube.com/@NetworldMediaGroup] to keep up with the latest Automation and Self-Service podcasts.

The automation of eco-friendly cleaning with Mr. Turtle

In this episode of the Automation and Self-Service Podcast, we're exploring an innovative solution tackling one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time: single-use plastic waste. Our guest, Benjamin Arts, co-founder of Mr. Turtle, has launched a "refill revolution" in the cleaning product industry. We discuss how Mr. Turtle's self-service stations are not only making it incredibly easy for consumers to refill their cleaning essentials, but also how they're dramatically reducing plastic waste by offering high-quality, effective products with convenience that rivals traditional shopping. Arts shared the journey behind creating this brand and how their automated refill system integrates into daily life. Our conversation with Arts went beyond just the mechanics of refilling; we also explore the vision driving Mr. Turtle forward. Arts discusses the hurdles of introducing such a transformative concept to the market and the clever strategies they've employed to overcome them. We also look to the future, envisioning how Mr. Turtle aims to expand its reach and further revolutionize consumer habits, making a lasting positive impact on our planet. Subscribe to Networld Media Group's YouTube channel [https://www.youtube.com/@NetworldMediaGroup] to keep up with the latest Automation and Self-Service podcasts.